First of all, thanks to everyone for their help so far... both my hood and my missing bolt problem are solved

Now for a deeper issue... an oldie but a goodie - my CEL was on when I purchased the Mini. It was throwing code P0014 and there are two instances stored. I cleared the code and it came back in just a couple miles. Always two instances stored.

The place where I bought the car agreed to repair the issue - whatever it is - as a condition of the sale. They decided it was the VANOS and purchased the part. I agreed to install the part.

After installing the VANOS and resetting the light drivability improved dramatically. Unfortunately, the light reappeared after about 10 miles. Only one instance in storage this time around but still the P0014 code. Also the car is more drivable than before the install, so I suspect the VANOS may have been bad. Of interest is the fact the old one was clean as a whistle - I suspect someone cleaned it to try and cure the problem.

So, do I take it back to this place or just try replacing the camshaft position sensors? Is there anything else that could be causing the CEL and code? The guy mentioned I might have to "reset the computer" after installing the VANOS - I've never heard of that, did I miss something?

I hate taking it back because they keep it for a day or two and it is a PITA for something that I can replace in 20 minutes. But I also hate buying parts that someone else should be paying for and I also hate diagnosing problems by replacing parts until the problem is fixed

As always, any help would be appreciated.

 

If I were you I would do a bench test of the two vanos solenoids located on passenger side by the timing chain. One is in the front and the other in the back. 1 bolt (I believe 10mm) take the bolt out then wiggle the sensor out. Check resistance and then connect to a 12v power source. Do not keep it hooked up, just touch the terminals and listen/feel for a click.


Sorry can't be of more help, that's the only thing that comes to mind in this moment. lmk what you find


Eli

 

P0014 'B' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1). Some info HERE.

Could be a timing issue. Some info HERE.

 

+1 i bet they cleaned it and that did not work. I would test the Vanos and then replace them in pairs. If its not the vanos you can below.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...solenoids.html

 

Thanks. I replaced the exhaust side VANOS with a new unit that was purchased for me by the person I bought the car from. It was still sealed when I got it in hand. The P0014 code returned in a few miles.

 

You can swap the valves just like a coil to see of fault follows from intake to exhaust and visa versa, no need to test.

I would look into the position sensor in the valve cover. 13627588095.

 

welcome, I would swap them for a test.

 

I got tired of trying to sort the problem out - since fixing whatever was causing the CEL to come on was part of the deal, I took it back to the garage. They told me they need it for 2 days and they think the timing chain "skipped" a tooth and they are going to replace it.

Is it worth it for me to buy the parts to be sure I am getting quality parts? I am sure they will go for the cheapest parts they can put their hands on;is there a big difference in the quality of timing chains?

Should I offer to pay for a water pump etc. and have any other work done at the same time?

Suggestions are welcome!

 

Ya, most of the time and from what I found if VANOS isn't your issue, it's a timing issue. If you want to shoot me a PM with your vin I can put together a kit for you with Genuine or OEM supplier parts so that you know you're getting quality parts. You can bring the kit into them and they can install it.

 

Thanks... I send you a PM in a couple minutes.

I know on other cars I've had changing the timing belt is a perfect time to change other parts - is this true of the Mini?

 

They'll be changing your timing chain, bolts, guides, and a few other things. If you look at the image below (ignore the red arrows) you see the guides and timing chain. That are some of the components that will be replaced. I'll put together items that are recommended to replace in the quote as well for you. Just got your PM. I'll discuss that with you all there.